Velma Jean Griffin

Velma Jean Griffin, 98, passed away peacefully in her Hutto, Texas home on March 7, 2026. Born in Indianapolis, Indiana on November 25, 1927, to Robert and Jessie Mattingly, she was the youngest of three siblings who preceded her in death.

Velma devoted her life to raising her five children in El Paso, Texas: Terry Barnhard, Dana Barnhard, Karen Rochelle Perez, Lisa Ledesma, and Eric Barnhard. Her strong faith sustained her through life’s challenges. A graduate of Ben Davis High School in Indianapolis in 1944, she married Arlon Barnhard after World War II. He passed away in 1984. In 1992 she married William (Bill) Griffin and they made their home in Fort Myers, Florida until his passing in 2007.

A woman of quiet strength, compassion, and unwavering devotion, Velma found deep purpose in her faith. She and her family were longtime members of Open Gate Church in El Paso, where she served on the Church Board, played the organ for Sunday services, and taught Sunday School. Known affectionately as “Granny” to her 13 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren, she cherished family gatherings, preparing large Sunday meals after church, and sharing her love of God with everyone she met. Later in Florida, she served at the McGregor Baptist Clothes Closet, offering a listening ear, gentle counsel, and prayers to those in need.

Velma will be deeply missed by her family and friends. Her life of faithful service and quiet love leaves a lasting legacy in all who knew her. A Celebration of Life Memorial will be held at Northside Church of the Nazarene in Watauga, Texas, with interment at Washington Park East Mausoleum in Indianapolis, Indiana.